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Minnesota on Paper

Collecting Our Printed History

2006

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Authors:

Moira F. Harris and Leo J. Harris

Collecting Minnesota’s history in the form of matchbooks, beer labels, stamps . . .

Using a whimsical and engaging approach, Minnesota on Paper showcases some of the saved treasures that bring Minnesota history to life. With a nostalgic glimpse into the past, Moira and Leo Harris convey the aesthetic, historical, and cultural significance of particular ephemera, including beer labels, circus posters, postcards, and stamps, to name a few.

Those who love old graphics from the golden age of color printing will be tickled.

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The Old Times

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As the influence of popular culture increases, the collection of paper ephemera has emerged as a hobby. From bus tickets and postcards to shopping bags and matchbooks, these collectible memorabilia are usually discarded after their intended use. However, if properly stored and preserved, these items can record and illuminate our history and culture.

Using a whimsical and engaging approach, Minnesota on Paper showcases some of the saved treasures that bring Minnesota history to life. With a nostalgic glimpse into the past, Moira and Leo Harris convey the aesthetic, historical, and cultural significance of particular ephemera, including beer labels, circus posters, postcards, and stamps, to name a few.

By examining the creation and design of the paper ephemera, Minnesota on Paper also reveals a great deal about the development of Minnesota business, the evolution of printing technology and graphic design, and the history of advertising. In a tribute to these bygone days, the authors investigate ephemera from a variety of different perspectives. Who designed and printed each item and why? How and why did the item change and then cease to be used? Why is the item of interest, and what is its meaning? Who collects this item and why?

A collection of treasures from the past, Minnesota on Paper features more than 240 color reproductions. Cultural historians, ephemera scholars, and Minnesotans intrigued by their history will appreciate these visual footnotes of Minnesota’s culture.

Moira F. Harris, along with Leo J. Harris, is the publisher of Pogo Press, a small press located in St. Paul. Between the two of them, they hold six degrees from the University of Minnesota. Moira F. Harris has written numerous articles on art and popular culture for local and national magazines and is the author of several books including The Paws of Refreshment: The Story of Hamm’s Beer Advertising, and Fire & Ice: The History of the Saint Paul Winter Carnival.

Leo J. Harris, along with Moira F. Harris, is the publisher of Pogo Press, a small press located in St. Paul. Between the two of them, they hold six degrees from the University of Minnesota.

Those who love old graphics from the golden age of color printing will be tickled.

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The Old Times

Colorful and very interesting.

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The Phillumenator

Whatever ephemera category is being discussed, the Harrises explore why it was created, its cultural content, and the images used.

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Ephemera News

Collectors of all types of paper product will learn about the history of the items and their makers through these Minnesota examples. The book is addicting—anyone picking it up intending to look up one or two items invariably ends up paging through at least a chapter.

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American Breweriana Journal

Offers a fascinating look at the history of printing in Minnesota, as well as cultural aspects of our society.

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St. Paul Pioneer Press

Whether you’re looking for a good read or an interesting social history, Minnesota on Paper is a fascinating collection. A very entertaining and engaging book.

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Winona Daily News

The text in this book is a potpourri of information and fun facts that mirrors the potpourri of items illustrated. This book can be enjoyed by anyone interested in Minnesota’s business history and collectors who are interested in what others collect.

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Ramsey County History

The book is skillfully designed and produced, the text is exceptionally informative, and the ephemera in the illustrations are often hauntingly evocative.